Located on the tropical island of Borneo, Kota Kinabalu is the capital of Sabah and is the largest city in the state. The city was originally known as Jesselton, but after WWII, was refreshed and renamed Kota Kinabalu in 1963. With plenty of options for shopping, dining on Malaysian delicacies and day and night-time entertainment, this charming city is the perfect place for a holiday.
The islands of the Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park (TAR) are right on Kota Kinabalu’s doorstep, just a short speedboat ride away. The five islands provide excellent snorkelling and diving with their shallow coral reefs and are blessed with beautiful white sandy beaches. During the months of November to February, whale sharks, the world’s largest fish, can be encountered dining on krill.
Sutera Harbour Resort occupies 384-acres between the South China Sea and Mount Kinabalu and boasts luxurious resorts as well as the Sutera Harbour Marina, Golf & Country Club, incorporating the 27-hole Graham Marsh-designed golf course, a 104-berth marina, internationally renowned Mandara Spa and a host of recreational facilities. Dive into sparkling swimming pools, enjoy live entertainment in one of the lounges, see a movie in the 100-seat theatre or stroll along the private beaches with your loved one. For a truly romantic experience, why not have your wedding at Sutera Harbour? From smaller beach ceremonies to an intimate garden affair to grand weddings in the ballroom, the wedding specialists will help you to create everlasting memories of your special day.
Take a ride on one of the North Borneo Railway’s steam trains for a scenic trip through coastal villages, rice paddy fields and rainforests and discover Borneo’s bygone era. Hop on at Tanjung Aru Station, just outside of Kota Kinabalu stopping in Putatan, Kinarut (a traditional trading village), Kawang (home to the Kawang Forest Reserve) and ending your 36 mile journey at Papar, known as the rice bowl of Sabah.